When nitrite levels in the blood went down after using mouthwash, blood pressure went up, and this connection was strong enough to be statistically significant.
Scientific Claim
In healthy young adults, the reduction in plasma nitrite levels after disrupting oral nitrate-reducing bacteria was significantly correlated with increases in systolic blood pressure (r² = 0.56, p = 0.002).
Original Statement
“Systolic and diastolic blood pressure increased by 2-3.5 mmHg, increases correlated to a decrease in circulating nitrite concentrations (r2 = 0.56, p = 0.002).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study design supports describing the correlation between nitrite levels and blood pressure changes. The language 'was significantly correlated' appropriately reflects the statistical relationship without implying causation.
More Accurate Statement
“In healthy young adults, the reduction in plasma nitrite levels after disrupting oral nitrate-reducing bacteria was significantly associated with increases in systolic blood pressure (r² = 0.56, p = 0.002).”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Physiological role for nitrate-reducing oral bacteria in blood pressure control